Shop Talk

Britain's largest designer outlet has recorded an eight per cent sales rise in June – proving that shoppers are still shopping... but they want the best for less. McArthurGlen Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet also recorded a five per cent boost in like for like sales and a three per cent increase in footfall.

Britain's largest designer outlet has recorded an eight per cent sales rise in June – proving that shoppers are still shopping... but they want the best for less.

McArthurGlen Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet also recorded a five per cent boost in like for like sales and a three per cent increase in footfall.

This may sound pretty modest but considering the high street’s current woes with the likes of Habitat and Jane Norman calling in the administrators, the designer discount outlet, near Chester, has cause to be smug.

Although an hour’s drive away, Cheshire Oaks is a magnet for Manchester label-lovers seeking designer looks at up to 60 per cent less.

We have the Lowry Outlet Mall on our doorstep but the number of brands available at the Salford complex pales in comparison to the vast number of stores – 145 and counting – at Cheshire Oaks.

Brands that have recently set up shop there include Armani, Hobbs and Reiss.

Manager Colin Wilding says: “When shoppers have less disposable income and reduced spending power we come into our own.

“We are now seeing a trend away from disposable fashion towards investment pieces. However, consumers are still cautious about price and are looking for a lower ‘cost per wear’ ratio, which is why what we offer is so attractive.”

Wilding added that the outlet’s success in June was fuelled by race days, summer weddings and holidays.

And although austerity chic is still the buzz phrase for cost-conscious shoppers it isn’t preventing them from spending on clothing, particularly if the occasion demands it.

Charlotte Woods, retail analyst for Verdict Research, added “Special occasions such as weddings are still part of our lives, encouraging us to buy new outfits and outlet destinations provide an opportunity for shoppers to make these purchases at a discount.”

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